You may have seen here on TVNewser that we use a service called Redlasso. It allows us to clip portions from the broadcast and cable news networks and show them to you on the blog. But, as you might imagine, the networks are not very happy with the service, as it is their content (which comes at a cost to them) that we feature (for free).

Well now NBC, CBS and Fox are doing something about it.

Yesterday, lawyers from the networks sent a cease and desist letter to Redlasso telling them they've violated copyright laws by streaming video clips without permission, causing the companies "serious and irreparable harm."

They demanded Redlasso stop "reproducing, distributing or displaying" the broadcasts.

Redlasso responded with their own letter obtained by TVNewser. They are "disappointed" but "remain open for business" and restate that their "goal from the outset has been to develop a platform that will be beneficial to content providers, the commentators in the blogosphere and ultimately to people who visit these sites."

The entire letter, after the jump...

As you probably already know, Redlasso received a cease and desist letter from several media companies yesterday.

Although we have great respect for the media companies involved, we strongly disagree with the letter's conclusion. The media companies are asking us for a response by May 29th. We are currently reviewing the letter and plan to respond in due time.

We were disappointed with the letter, especially given our transparent and open approach with the major content providers. We have been upfront in all of our discussions over the past two years including providing site logins, updates on our traction in the marketplace, and our business model. We will continue with our open approach as we continue to look to enter partnering agreements with all publishers.

This will not affect the usability of the Redlasso site. We are open for business and will remain so as we continue the discussions.

Our goal from the outset has been to develop a platform that will be beneficial to content providers, the commentators in the blogosphere and ultimately to people who visit these sites.'